Noon Hour Concert: Christopher Dawes
Join Christopher Dawes for an eclectic organ performance, celebrating the versatility and depth of this majestic instrument. As a multifaceted musician hailing from Toronto, Christopher is not just an organist but also a conductor, composer, and educator. With a career that traverses solo recitals and collaborative ventures across North America and Europe, his expertise has found a home in concert halls, organ lofts, and on numerous commercial CDs. At Rosedale Presbyterian Church and with the Marion Singers of Greater Toronto, he shares his wide-ranging musical passions. His musical journey is marked by a curiosity that leads him to explore and interpret various genres, from jazz to gospel, and beyond. Experience the rich tapestry of sounds as Christopher brings his unique perspective and passion for music to our Spring Noon Hour Concert Series.
Noon Hour Concert: Classic Bronze Handbell Quartet
Classic Bronze Handbell Quartet is comprised of four members of Knox Bells of Praise Handbell choir at Knox Presbyterian Church, Meaford. They have attended many workshop and festival events and have also provided entertainment for various groups in the community. They are also experienced in solo and duet ringing. Members include Jennifer Pearson, Ellie Smith, Eleanor McDougall and Shirley Reinders.
Noon Hour Concert: Phoenix Trio
The Phoenix Trio brings together Wendy Wagler on flute, Cathy Anderson on cello, and Beth Ann de Sousa on piano. Wendy, principal flutist with the Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber Orchestra, has graced numerous ensembles and has performed extensively as a soloist. Cathy, the Associate Principal Cellist of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony, brings her rich performance experience and teaching expertise to the group. Beth Ann de Sousa, a seasoned accompanist and chamber musician, completes the trio with her mastery of the piano. Together, they create a harmonious blend of flute, cello, and piano that is sure to enchant the audience with classical and contemporary pieces.
Noon Hour Concert: Shoreline Chorus - Celebrating 25 Years
Celebrate a remarkable milestone with the Shoreline Chorus as they mark 25 years of music-making. This vibrant 50-member choir, hailing from various communities in Grey County, showcases a rich variety of musical styles. Under the direction of Ann-Marie MacDairmid, the Shoreline Chorus brings their wide-ranging repertoire to the Spring Noon Hour Concert Series. With performances that span from Broadway to classical themes, and embracing music from across the globe, this group has delighted audiences both locally and internationally. Join us for a special concert that not only highlights their diverse musical journey but also commemorates their contributions to community events and fundraisers throughout the years.
Noon Hour Concert: Luke Welch
Award-winning pianist Luke Welch, from Mississauga, brings his international concert experience to our series. With degrees in music and an impressive list of masterclass participation, Luke has performed in venues around the world, from Beethoven Haus in Germany to St. Martin-in-the-Terraces in New Zealand. His broad range of collaborations extends to orchestras and ballet companies, showcasing his versatility as a pianist. Luke's recordings have garnered critical acclaim and his thoughts on music and inclusivity in classical music have been published in respected outlets. As a recent appointee to the Faculty of Piano at the Royal Conservatory of Music Oscar Peterson Program, he is recognized as a significant figure in the musical community. Join us for an afternoon of exquisite piano music with Luke Welch.
Noon Hour Concert: Tre Gatte
Tre Gatte, a newly formed chamber music ensemble, invites you to a unique performance that reflects their shared love for music and felines. The trio, comprising clarinetist Ginny Scarfino, cellist Cynthia Steele, and pianist Michelle Kyle, met through their involvement in various orchestras and united over common interests. With whimsical cat ears adorning their performances, they support the Feline Friends Network and bring an element of fun to classical music. They’ve begun their journey performing in retirement homes and local concert series, and this recital is a celebration of their harmonious collaboration. The trio will delight you with their camaraderie and shared musical passion.
Noon Hour Concert: Song Settings from Shakespeare
Spring into the Music with our final performance in our Spring Noon Hour Concert Series 2024. Admission to the building is free, and a sandwich lunch is available for purchase prior to each recital between 11:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m., with the concerts beginning at 12:15 p.m.
About Amanda Jeffreys
Originally from Sault Ste. Marie Ontario, Amanda is in her second year of studies at Wilfrid Laurier University, where she is working towards a Bachelor of Music Degree, with the intention to pursue vocal performance. Amanda has earned her Bachelor of Arts (Music) while attending Algoma University, and while living in Sault Ste Marie, was a member of various Choral Ensemble’s and Musical Theatre Productions. Amanda is currently a part of Opera Laurier’s production of Into the Woods, in the role of Jack’s Mother. Aside from performing, Amanda is discovering her love of teaching, as she has been teaching various Glee clubs in local elementary schools. Outside of school and work, Amanda loves to cook and bake, as well as play with her cat Millie.
About Darielle Chomyn-Davison
Originally from Prince Edward County, a place known for its stunning beaches and exceptional wine, Darielle embarked on her singing journey in Sault Ste. Marie, studying under the guidance of Agnes McCarthy and coach Paul Dingle. For the past four years, she has resided in Kitchener-Waterloo, where she earned her bachelor's degree in Vocal Performance from WLU, honing her skills with the support of Leslie Fagan and coach Lorin Shalanko.
As an active choral scholar at St. Andrew’s Church, under the leadership of Ann-Marie MacDairmid and Gordon Burnett, Darielle has always held a special place in her heart for choral music. Her participation includes memorable events such as the Christmas Cantata, Maureen Forester Singers, John Rutter's Requiem, and premiering new choral works by Justin Lapierre.
In addition to her passion for performing on stage and her love for her two cats, Kili and Fili, Darielle is continuing her vocal pedagogy education with Dr. Elizabeth Lepock, and teaches in Kitchener and Oakville. Recently, she participated as a chorus member in Brott Opera’s production of Verdi’s La Traviata last summer, and debuted the role of Miles in Grand River Opera’s rendition of Britten’s The Turn of the Screw last fall.
About Morgan Ballantyne
Morgan's journey in singing is deeply rooted in choral performance, he has sung in various choirs over the years including The Bel Canto Chorus in Sudbury, The 2017 Ontario Youth Choir, and the Laurier Singers here in Waterloo. He is currently a Choral Scholar at St Andrew's Presbyterian Church. As a solo performer Morgan has completed an advanced diploma in Musical Performance from Cambrian College in Sudbury Ontario, and a Bachelor of Music as a vocalist is at Wilfrid Laurier. Morgan is in the Opera Diploma program at Laurier this year.
About Quade Nielsen
Since a young age Quade Nielsen has always had a passion for music. He began his venture into classical music at Wilfred Laurier University in Waterloo Ontario, Canada. After graduating in 2020 with a Bachelor of Music Degree (Honours Performance) Quade continues to blossom as a Tenor. He continues to further develop his skills.
Quade has performed in many public and private music venues along side other respected artists including his long time mentor and internationally recognized Baritone, Daniel Lichti.
Quade continues to refine his voice by attending international music programs such as the Festival de l’Académie de Fourvière in Leon, France, the Musiktage am Rhein in Neuwied, Germany, and the AIM Paris music festival.
Currently, (2024) Quade sings with the St John's Elora Parish Choir, one of the few professional church choirs in Canada, while he studies Software Engineering at Conestoga College.
Quade has a sincere approach to music and life and shares that with his voice, as he continues to inspire audiences.
About Stuart Bergstra
Stuart is originally from the Owen Sound area, and has forty years experience as a choral singer, with church choirs, community choirs, and jazz and pop ensembles. Stuart is a charter member of the Grand River Chorus in Brantford, and although not a charter member is the longest serving chorister in Ann-Marie MacDairmid’s Shoreline Chorus in Owen Sound. He is looking forward to singing in their respective 25th anniversary concerts this spring.
Spring into the Music
Concert Series Lineup
JUNE 19
Song Settings from Shakespeare
Amanda Jeffreys, Darielle Chomyn-Davison
Morgan Ballantyne, Quade Nielsen
Stuart Bergstra
Ann-Marie MacDairmid piano
Noon Hour Concert: Annette Haas & The Leith Quartet
Spring into the Music with a brand new line of performances in our Spring Noon Hour Concert Series. Admission to the building is free, and a sandwich lunch is available for purchase prior to each recital between 11:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m., with the concerts beginning at 12:15 p.m.
About The Leith Quartet
Based in Kitchener-Waterloo, The Leith Quartet is made up of four talented musicians playing violin, viola and cello. The group takes their name from the historic Leith Church in Leith, Ontario, where the group originally made their debut in 2001. Since then, they have been presenting inspirational performances at concerts in Leith, Cambridge and the Waterloo Region as well as playing close to thirty weddings per year from London to Toronto, and Niagara-on-the-Lake to Owen Sound. Recently, they have been recording with The Relative Minors, a Rock/Folk band based in Cambridge, and can be heard on their latest album “Mostly What We Do Is Sleep.”
About Bruce Skelton
Bruce Skelton studied with Jacob Krachmalnick at the University of Michigan, where he obtained a Bachelor of Music in Performance. In addition to his work playing and managing The Leith Quartet, he regularly freelances in the Kitchener-Waterloo area and maintains a very active teaching career, both in private violin lessons as well as with the K-W Community String School. He also recently added the title of Concertmaster for the KW Community Orchestra and Co-Concertmaster for the Stratford Symphony.
About Andrea Weber Steckly
Andrea Weber Steckly loves playing second violin with Leith Quartet as well as playing violin and singing with John B. Miller & Friends and The Doubtfires. She was concertmaster of the K-W Chamber Orchestra for 10 years, and freelances extensively in the region. She studied at the University of Toronto and Western University attaining performance degrees
About Martha Kalyniak
Martha Kalyniak has been a member of the Leith String quartet since it formed in 2000. She is on the faculty of the Kitchener Waterloo Community String school and has been teaching both Violin and viola for many years. Martha played in the viola section of the Kitchener Waterloo Symphony for 40 seasons and recently retired from her position in May 2022.
Since then, she has become involved with National Service Dogs, an organization of breeding, training and placing certified service dogs with children with autism. She is currently raising NSD Charlie.
About Cathy Anderson
Cathy Anderson was the Associate Principal Cellist of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony for many years. She plays occasionally with Drayton Entertainment and as a sub for the Stratford Festival and has been heard as a soloist and chamber musician on CBC Radio and National Public Radio in the US. She holds music degrees from Wilfrid Laurier and Yale Universities and performs regularly in the Kitchener-Waterloo area in collaboration with other local musicians. She maintains a teaching studio at the Renaissance School of the Arts.
About Annette Haas
Coming soon…
Spring into the Music
Concert Series Lineup
MAY 1
Annette Haas & The Leith Quartet
Bruce Skelton violin
Andrea Weber Steckly violin
Martha Kalyniak viola
Cathy Anderson cello
MAY 8
Christopher Dawes organ
MAY 15
Classic Bronze Handbell Quartet
Eleanor McDougall, Jennifer Pearson
Shirley Reinders, Ellie Smith
MAY 22
Phoenix Trio
Wendy Wagler flute
Cathy Anderson cello
Beth Ann de Sousa piano
MAY 29
Shoreline Chorus - Celebrating 25 Years
Director: Ann-Marie MacDairmid
JUNE 5
Luke Welch
piano
JUNE 12
Tre Gatte
Ginny Scarfino clarinet
Cynthia Steele cello
Michelle Kyle piano
JUNE 19
Song Settings from Shakespeare
Amanda Jeffreys, Darielle Chomyn-Davison
Morgan Ballantyne, Quade Nielsen
Stuart Bergstra
Ann-Marie MacDairmid piano
Noon Hour Concert: Merkwürdig Trio
Enjoy an afternoon with the Merkwürdig Trio, featuring David Vanbiesbrouck on oboe, Judith Souman on viola, and Beth Ann de Sousa on piano. David, a principal oboist with the Guelph Symphony, brings his finesse and expertise to the ensemble, complemented by his passion for reed crafting. Judith offers a rich background in viola performance from Canada to the Netherlands, now sharing her talents both on stage and as an educator in Kitchener. Beth Ann, with a profound career at Wilfrid Laurier University, provides the piano backbone for the trio, sharing her extensive experience in performance and accompaniment. Together, they present a blend of classical sensibilities and intimate chamber music collaboration.
Noon Hour Concert: Corey Linforth & Peter Nikiforuk
Experience the dynamic range of soprano Corey Linforth, whose expertise spans from the classical oratorio to the contemporary pop-folk genre. Having performed with various choirs and ensembles, Corey has honed her craft both locally and internationally, from Canada's Early Music Vancouver to England's Tallis Scholars’ Summer Schools. Celebrate her transition into pop-folk music with selections from her newly released EPs, which have garnered support from the Ontario Arts Council and the Waterloo Region Arts Fund. Providing the piano accompaniment is the esteemed Peter Nikiforuk, a musician with a distinguished background in both performance and education. After more than three decades at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Peter brings his wealth of experience to our stage, promising a concert of exceptional musicality and expression.
Noon Hour Concert: Janelle Santi & Jordan Wellin
Join us for a captivating afternoon of vocal and piano music with soprano Janelle Santi and pianist Jordan Wellin. Born and raised in Kitchener, Janelle is a University of Waterloo Music and Business graduate who has performed in various prestigious choirs and is currently a proud member of the DaCapo Chamber Choir and the Parish Choir of St. John’s Anglican in Elora. She brings her rich choral experience and passion for music to our stage. Accompanying her is Jordan Wellin, a classically trained pianist with a deep background in collaborative piano and vocal accompaniment. Together, they promise a performance that blends technical excellence with heartfelt expression. Don't miss this inspiring recital that showcases local talent and the power of music to unite and uplift.
Evening Service - January 2024
Our evening services offer a sacred time of reflection and worship, allowing you to pause from the busyness of life and find solace in the presence of God. Each service is thoughtfully put together to provide space for you to truly be instead of constantly doing.
Evening worship happens once a month on the last Sunday of each month and takes place in the Covenant Chapel. All are welcome.
Noon Hour Concert: Cambridge Girls' Choir
Celebrating their 40th season, this all-girl choir holds a cherished place in Waterloo Region's musical landscape. Accompanied by Mr. Rob Krete, their harmonious voices are sure to enchant and uplift. Returning to St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, the choir's dedication and resilience shine as they mark this milestone year. Their performance is a testament to the power of music and unity.
Noon Hour Concert: Renaissance School of the Arts Flute Choir
This diverse ensemble, comprising students of various ages and playing experiences, will grace the Noon Hour Concert on December 13th. With over 27 years of flute instruction, Wendy has nurtured talent and directed the choir since its inception in 2004.
Noon Hour Concert: Waterloo County Carollers
Founded in 1986, this group of professional and semi-professional singers revives the cherished Christmas music that has become a holiday tradition. Adorned in Victorian attire, they bring a touch of nostalgia and charm to every performance. Their unaccompanied choral renditions, presented one-on-a-part, have graced diverse venues during the festive season. Experience the heartwarming magic of the Waterloo County Carollers this holiday season.
Police Band Holiday Concert
Join us for a holiday concert featuring the Waterloo Regional Police Service Ceremonial Band.
A free-will offering will be received for the Foodbank of Waterloo Region.
Noon Hour Concert: Ian Sadler
Join us for a concert with organist Ian Sadler at the Noon Hour Concert on November 29th.
Evening Service - November 2023
Our evening services offer a sacred time of reflection and worship, allowing you to pause from the busyness of life and find solace in the presence of God. Each service is thoughtfully put together to provide space for you to truly be instead of constantly doing.
Evening worship happens once a month on the last Sunday of each month and takes place in the Covenant Chapel. All are welcome.
Noon Hour Concert: Debassige & Sinclair
Let the music of Autumn and Angus fill your noon with warmth and musical wonder. Autumn's expressive voice and Angus's skilled piano performance will transport you to musical realms. From her operatic debut to her versatile solo appearances, Autumn's vocals have been praised for their rich tones and engaging style. Angus, a renowned pianist and organist, adds depth and harmony to the performance.
Noon Hour Concert: Larocque & MacDairmid
Be mesmerized by soprano Keiko Larocque's enchanting performance alongside pianist Ann-Marie MacDairmid. Join us at 12:15 PM for an unforgettable mid-day break at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church.
Noon Hour Concert: Shoreline Chorus
Shoreline Chorus brings together the magic of music and the spirit of community in a concert you won't want to miss. Join us as part of their 24th season under the skillful direction of Ann-Marie MacDairmid. This Owen Sound-based community choir, comprising 50 members from across Grey County, offers a diverse repertoire ranging from Broadway hits to classical masterpieces.
Noon Hour Concert: Joonghun Cho
On November 1st, embrace the musical brilliance of pianist Joonghun Cho as his versatile artistry comes to life. Having performed on prestigious stages across the world, from Spain to Japan, Joonghun enchants with masterful melodies. Immerse yourself in his captivating performance at the free noon hour concert at 12:15 PM.
Noon Hour Concert: Hallowe’en Special
Get ready for a bewitching musical experience at our Hallowe'en Special Concert featuring the mesmerizing talents of Bruce Skelton on violin and Ann-Marie MacDairmid on organ and piano. 🎻🎹
Evening Service - October 2023
Our evening services offer a sacred time of reflection and worship, allowing you to pause from the busyness of life and find solace in the presence of God. Each service is thoughtfully put together to provide space for you to truly be instead of constantly doing.
Evening worship happens once a month on the last Sunday of each month and takes place in the Covenant Chapel. All are welcome.
A Musical Legacy: A weekend to honour and celebrate the late Douglas Haas
Save the date:
Sunday, October 22, 2023, 10:00 am
Worship service with the dedication of the Douglas Haas Memorial Royal Trumpet Stop
Sunday, October 22, 2023, 7:00 pm
A celebratory concert with a reception to follow in Iona Hall
More details coming soon…
Noon Hour Concert: Michele Wilmot
Step into a world of piano enchantment as Michele Wilmot, a pianist of extraordinary dedication and talent, takes center stage. Having showcased her artistry across North America, Michele brings her captivating melodies to St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church. From British Columbia to New York City, her virtuosity resonates. Join us for a free noon-hour concert at 12:15 PM, with lunch available for purchase at 11:30 AM.
Noon Hour Concert: KW Woodwind Quintet
Come and enjoy a concert from the talent KW Woodwind Quintet
Noon Hour Concert: Peter Nikiforuk
Embark on a musical journey with the remarkable Peter Nikiforuk as he takes the organ to new heights. Join us on October 4th at 12:15pm for a Noon Hour Concert at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church.
Noon Hour Concert: Chomyn-Davison, Ballantyne, & MacDairmid
Darielle's choral devotion, Morgan's choral journey, and Ann-Marie's piano prowess will create an enchanting noon-hour concert at St. Andrew's. Immerse yourself in their melodies while enjoying a tasty lunch (available for purchase beginning at 11:30 AM).
Evening Service - September 2023
Our evening services offer a sacred time of reflection and worship, allowing you to pause from the busyness of life and find solace in the presence of God. Each service is thoughtfully put together to provide space for you to truly be instead of constantly doing.
Evening worship happens once a month on the last Sunday of each month and takes place in the Covenant Chapel. All are welcome.
Hymn Writing 101
Hymn Writing 101!
Facilitator: Gord Burnett, Sanctuary Choir Director, Ann-Marie MacDairmid, Director of music
Our world is ever-changing and has changed considerably since our present hymn books were published. It has been about 25 years since the present Book of Praise hit the pews, a generation ago already. How is the world represented in the hymns we sing today? How do we use our hymns to include and make everyone feel valued and welcome? Now is your chance! On Sunday, September 24 at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Kitchener, you will have an opportunity to use your creativity to address questions like these. You will be able to write new words to existing hymns, original words to well-known tunes or new words with or without tunes. You will be working in teams or individually if you prefer. The session will look at the role of hymns in worship and beyond, what areas we need to add new hymns, how we teach new hymns and how to write new hymns. A light supper will follow the session. We will showcase our work at an evening hymn=sing in Covenant Chapel. It is going to be great! Looking forward to seeing you there! This is a free event, open to members of the community. A special shout-out to young adults, youth and children. Your voices are important to us.
Schedule: Sunday, September 24, 2023
Hymn Writing 101 session
3:00 p.m.—5:30 p.m.
Light supper
5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.
Evening hymn sing in Covenant Chapel showcasing the new hymns written in the workshop.
7:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Location:
St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church
54 Queen St. N.
Kitchener, Ontario
Noon Hour Concert: Daniel Cabena
A Nest of Byrds
The Cardinal Consort & Daniel Cabena present a program exploring the life & times of William Byrd.
Noon Hour Concert: Koichi Inoue
Doctor of Music in Piano Performance & Music Literature as well as Master and Bachelor degrees from Indiana University. He has studied with several renowned pianists and has participated in master classes with some of the most respected names in the industry. He has performed with prestigious orchestras and has appeared in various concert series in Southern Ontario. Koichi currently lives and teaches in Brampton, where he is a founder of the Brampton Chamber Music Concert Series and regularly performs in its programs
Old Fashioned Hymn Sing
Join us on June 18th at 7 pm for an evening worship service in the chapel! We'll be hosting another old-fashioned hymn sing. We had so many hymn submissions from our hymn sing service in May that we’re doing another one!
Noon Hour Concert: Phoenix Trio
Experience the enchanting sounds of the Phoenix Trio, featuring Wendy Wagler on flute, Beth Ann de Sousa on piano, and Cathy Anderson on cello. Wendy is a highly skilled soloist and orchestral musician, while Beth Ann has been a coach, accompanist, and chamber musician in the KW area for over 40 years. Cathy is the Associate Principal Cellist of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony and has been heard as a soloist and chamber musician on CBC Radio and National Public Radio in the United States. Together, they create a dynamic and captivating musical experience. Don't miss this concert on June 14 at 12:15 pm.
Noon Hour Concert: Colin Cousins
Enjoy the music of Colin Cousins, a talented organist and choir director with over 46 years of experience. Colin has played concerts in Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom as a theatre organist and has served in several churches as a Music Director. He is also a pastoral counselling minister with a Master of Divinity degree. With his unique sense of humour and love for music, Colin is sure to deliver a delightful performance that you won't want to miss.
Noon Hour Concert: Luke Welch
international stage, including appearances in Canada, the United States, Europe, and New Zealand. He has collaborated with renowned academies and companies in the dance and music industry and has worked as an interdisciplinary collaborative pianist. Welch's performances have received critical acclaim, and he has been recognized for his work with the Harry Jerome Arts Award.